I have spent the past few months researching the history of the Feethams Cricket Field Trust, its assets and what happened to them following changes in the organisations responsible for the cricket ground and associated interests.
I want to stress that I am not accusing anyone of criminality or wrongdoing.
My concerns are about transparency, accountability and the protection of assets that have a long connection with the people of Darlington and local sport.
I have contacted Darlington Borough Council through Freedom of Information, my MP and the Charity Commission, seeking answers to some basic questions:
How was the Trust transferred or brought to an end?
What happened to its assets?
Who became responsible for them, and what oversight has there been to ensure that the original community purpose has been protected?
Despite contacting several organisations, I have yet to receive a clear explanation of the complete history and subsequent management of these assets.
If everything was properly transferred and managed, surely the relevant documentation should be capable of providing a straightforward explanation.
I have now approached the Ombudsman to establish whether any aspect of the Council’s involvement warrants independent consideration.
This is not about attacking cricket in Darlington.
It is about ensuring that the history is properly established and that the people of Darlington can understand what happened to assets associated with their town and its sporting heritage.
I do know that a CIC was created.
However, as Darlington Cricket Club is a members only club I believe the townsfolk have a legitimate question in “How does this benefit the town and its people”.
If the proceeds of the sales were used to the benefit of more sports clubs, for example Darlington Railway Athletic with its multi-sport fraternity, I’m very sure the Pease family’s legacy would be appreciated town wide.
Darlington Cricket Club is protected by the CIC so the invested money, I believe, is better spent town wide.
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I am simply asking for answers, transparency and accountability.
If anyone has relevant historical documents or information about the Trust or the transfer of its assets, I would be interested in hearing from them.
Mark Dobson, Darlington.
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